It’s nuptial season again and while there is great cause for celebration, it is important not to forget your manners. Here are 10 essential rules to live by while attending a wedding.
1. RSVP
Getting a ceremony or reception together can be a stressful time, especially for the bride and groom, so save them any last minute surprises and RSVP as soon as you get your invite. Knowing the number of guests is essential while determining wedding expenses.
2. Send a gift
Just because you got out of attending the party, doesn’t mean you won’t need to send them a gift — one invitation equals one wedding gift. Don’t forget to shop from the registry, if they have arranged for one.
3. Steer clear of cameras you shouldn’t be in front of
The new couple gets only one day to take pictures that will last them a life time.
They probably don’t want to be looking back years from now at their special moment and see your face stuffed with cake in the background.
4. Congratulate the families
For most brides and grooms, the wedding day is a complete blur. So it is a good idea to seek out the families involved to tell them that you enjoyed the evening and personally congratulate them.
5. Don’t party crash
If you weren’t invited with a guest, don’t show up with one. Also, asking the bride/groom if you can bring a plus one is a no-no as it puts them in a very awkward position. If it were in their budget, they would’ve extended the extra invitation to begin with.
6. Say goodnight to your kids
No, someone’s wedding day is not the perfect opportunity for your friends and family to meet the little ones. Unless they were invited, keep your kids at home.
7. Dress appropriately
Don’t wear white. In fact, stay clear of all shades that range from off-white to ivory. It’s just good manners. We appreciate that you have been working out, staying fit and itching to show off your new bod. However, this is a family event; don’t dress to compete.
8. Don’t use your phone
A wedding ceremony is an intimate gathering; you have been invited to celebrate it, not to report it. Don’t ruin the night by texting, tweeting and Facebook-ing. Keep your phone in your purse and instead, mingle with real life people for a change.
9. Know when to leave
If you are in a hurry to leave but don’t want to be rude, it is a general rule that it is okay to leave after the cake is cut.
10. Don’t share wedding photos
While social media doesn’t really leave much room for privacy, the bride and groom probably want to be the first ones who share their wedding images with the world. Don’t Instagram any shots just yet.
